In this episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, host David Alvarez, sits down with former California Speaker Emeritus John A. Pérez and U.S. Consul General in Tijuana Christopher Teal to explore the powerful intersection of education, diplomacy, and economic opportunity between California and Mexico. From dual-degree programs to binational workforce development, this conversation highlights how cross-border collaboration is reshaping the future of higher education. Together, they discuss the importance of supporting first-generation students, expanding access to affordable education, and creating innovative pathways that prepare young people for a global economy. With stories of resilience, policy insights, and a shared vision for the future, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about education, opportunity, and building stronger U.S.–Mexico ties. Some notable moments from this episode:  00:23 – Welcoming Speaker Pérez to the Conversation 01:29 – A New Model: Dual Enrollment and Binational Education 02:55 – Beyond Bridges: Building True Integration Across Borders 05:14 – California’s Higher Education as a Path to Mobility 06:29 – From Study Abroad to Dual Degrees 08:23 – First-Generation Students and Access to Opportunity 11:23 – Geographic Inequality in Higher Education 13:38 – Merced’s Surprising PhD Pipeline 15:47 – The Middle Class Scholarship and Affordability 18:06 – Signing MOUs and Building Momentum for the FutureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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